Tensions Remain High Around Lashio After Handover to Junta

Tensions remain high in northern Shan State’s Lashio Township after rebels’ China-brokered handover of the state capital to the military regime.

Further negotiations earlier this month between the junta and the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) failed, and both sides continue to block roads and reinforce their positions.

During a routine meeting on Nov. 11, junta officials demanded that MNDAA troops withdraw from National Highway 3 between Lashio and Hsipaw. When the rebels refused, junta forces unilaterally closed the road at Hsipaw, while the MNDAA blocked Road 44 to Namlan.